RT Journal
A1 Kerlikowske K
T1 A call for evidence of benefits outweighing harms before implementing new technologies: Comment on “diffusion of computer-aided mammography after mandated medicare coverage”
JF Archives of Internal Medicine
JO Archives of Internal Medicine
YR 2010
FD June 14
VO 170
IS 11
SP 990
OP 991
DO 10.1001/archinternmed.2010.137
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/archinternmed.2010.137
AB
Variability in the accuracy of screening mammography is well documented and varies across populations of women and radiologists.1,2 Variability in the accuracy of screening mammography has paved the way for new technologies to be developed that could improve breast cancer detection. New evidence reported in this issue of the Archives describes the diffusion and annual cost of one such technology, computer-aided detection mammography (CAD) technology. Fenton et al have described a rapid increase in CAD use from 5% in 2001 to 27% in 2003 after Congressionally mandated Medicare coverage occurred in 2000. Supplemental fees for CAD use cost Medicare an estimated $19.5 million in 2003 alone.